How to get to Ukraine from Bulgaria: convenient routes by train, bus or car
Due to the war, Ukraine's airspace is closed, so you need to carefully consider your route. Find out more about how to get from Bulgaria to Ukraine
Bulgaria has always attracted Ukrainians with its sea coast and mild climate. At the same time, for Bulgarians, a visit to Ukraine is an opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique culture and traditions, see the struggle for independence, and meet unique people.
Although Bulgaria does not share a border with Ukraine, the trip can be quick and pleasant. We tell you about the available ways to get to Ukraine and help you plan the most convenient route.
The war in Ukraine did not close land borders so everyone can visit the country. Although, the absence of air flights complicates transfer to Ukraine rail and bus connections allow comfortable travel.
Read more about visa rules and obtaining a visa to Ukraine for Bulgarian citizens here.
It should be noted that over 7 thousand tourists from Bulgaria visited Ukraine in the first half of 2023.
The most popular option is a flight to a country bordering Ukraine
Closed airspace encouraged the development of bus and transport connections. Tourists tried different options, but the combination of air travel and land transport appeared to be the most efficient way to come to Ukraine.
The first stage is to fly to one of the countries that share a common border with Ukraine. Then you need to change to a train or bus to get to the desired city without a transfer.
We tell you which airlines operate flights from Bulgaria and what the price of tickets is (according to the skyscanner.com.ua resource).
• Bulgaria-Poland. There are direct flights from Sofia, Varna, and Burgas to various Polish cities, including Warsaw, Katowice, and Wroclaw. The average flight duration is 2 hours, and the lowest ticket price stands at $21.
• Bulgaria-Moldova. Chisinau can be reached from Sofia, Varna, and Burgas, but there are no direct flights. The cheapest tickets you can buy for September (from $117 one way).
• Bulgaria-Hungary. Tourists from Bulgaria can take flights from the largest cities to the Hungarian capital. Many travelers choose Wizz Air because of their affordable prices. The cheapest flight, costing $16, is scheduled for September.
• Bulgaria-Austria. Austrian Airlines and Wizz Air offer direct flights from Sofia, Varna, and Burgas to Vienna. Prices are low-cost – from $16 one way.
• Bulgaria-Slovakia. It takes only 1 hour and 40 minutes to fly to Bratislava and Kosice. The cost of a one-way ticket is also pleasant – from $17.
After arriving in a European country, tourists need to use ground transport. There are many options as people can choose between a train or a bus.
Ukrzaliznytsia offers connections with the countries closest to Ukraine:
● Poland. From Warsaw and Chelm you can reach Kyiv and Kharkiv, from Przemysl - to Kyiv, Odesa, and Zaporizhzhia;
● Austria. There is a train from Vienna to Kyiv with a stop in Budapest;
● Moldova. It is convenient to reach Kyiv by direct train from Chisinau;
● Slovakia. From Kosice you can reach Chop and Mukachevo.
Visit the link for a detailed schedule of trains running between Ukraine and European countries.
Where to find tickets?
Many bus carriers offer routes from Europe to Ukraine. We recommend choosing reliable companies so that the travel experience is pleasant and positive.
View the offers of VisitUkraine partners and buy tickets for trains, buses, and planes via the link.
Visit Ukraine on social media: Telegram | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok
From Bulgaria to Ukraine by a car
The distance from Sofia to Kyiv is about 1,400 km, so a car trip will take almost 20 hours.
Take care of the documents. To cross the border, you will need a green card insurance policy, an international technical passport, and an international driver's license. Read more about the rules for traveling in Ukraine by car with foreign registration via the link.
Note that you will be driving through Bulgaria, Moldova, and Romania, which have toll roads. Remember to buy a vignette if you will pass through such areas.
Important! When traveling to Ukraine under martial law, it is worth remembering additional risks. War risk insurance covers losses in the event of an accident due to hostilities or acts of terrorism and will cover outpatient treatment and emergency care.
What to see in Ukraine?
You can meet many foreigners on the streets of Ukrainian cities. Ukrainians are not surprised when they see tourists because they understand that the country's cultural and natural attractions are unique.
Even martial law does not stop brave and determined foreigners from traveling. Read our article to find out what attracts tourists to Ukraine and which places are most often visited.
Legal support in Ukraine for citizens of Bulgaria
Foreigners may need legal advice during their stay in Ukraine. Sometimes there are difficulties with the legal aspects of entry and stay in Ukraine and the processing of documents. Be sure to contact a specialist if your rights have been violated.
We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine:
Visit Ukraine Insurance - safe travel in Ukraine (insurance covering military risks);
Visit Ukraine Tickets - book bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Tours - the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;
Visit Ukraine Hotels - book hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;
Visit Ukraine Merch - choose patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.
Cooperation - cooperation and advertising integrations with Visit Ukraine and Visit World projects.
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